Hong Kong Rejects U.S. Report, Highlights Mutual Benefits

The Hong Kong government has strongly criticized a report from a U.S. congressional committee that recommended more sanctions against the city. Officials condemned the document for its "groundless attacks" on Hong Kong. A government spokesman responded to the annual report from the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission on Wednesday. The spokesman defended the city and rejected what it called "slanders and smears." The government also emphasized the strong economic relationship between the United States and Hong Kong. It pointed out that America holds "substantial" commercial interests and enjoys significant economic benefits from its ties with the Asian financial hub.